A membrane that consists of three layers surrounds the brain; the layers consist of the dura mater, arachnoid mater and pia mater. These layers are referred to as the meninges. Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges caused by a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. The University of Maryland Medical School says meningitis is a serious medical condition, contracted through the spread of the pathogen typically by throat or mouth secretions. The condition is treated depending upon the origin of the infection.
Viral Meningitis Treatment
Viral Meningitis is a more common form of meningitis than bacterial or fungal. Viral meningitis is not life threatening. It is caused by a variety of different viruses and is transmitted through coughing, sneezing or poor hygiene. Viral meningitis cannot be treated with medication; the body must rid itself of the virus through the action of the immune system. NYU Langone Medical Center says viral meningitis is treated with supportive measures including rest, fluid replacement and over the counter anti-inflammatories. Recovery is common; however, fatigue, headaches and depression can remain, for an undetermined duration, according to the University of Maryland Medical School.
Bacterial Meningitis Treatment
Bacterial meningitis is rare, but highly contagious and potentially fatal. The pathogen is acquired through saliva secretions; therefore, it cannot be picked up by touching a contaminated surface or from exposure to polluted water. Three types of bacteria account for 80 percent of the bacterial meningitis cases and include the meningococcus meningitidis, haemophilus influenzae type b and streptococcus pneumoniae. Meningococcus meningitidis is spread through throat secretions and typically strikes infants or small school children. Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteria are the most common type of meningitis in children. Symptoms in children include lack of appetite, fussy, excessive crying and difficulty waking. Steptococcus pneumoniae is the most common type of meningitis in adults, primarily affecting adults with a current infection such as a sinus or ear infection. Bacterial meningitis is treated with intravenous antibiotics up to two weeks. Recover is possible if treatment is administered early, according to University of Maryland Medical School and Penn State University Medical School.
Fungal Meningitis Treatment
The crytococcus neoformans fungus found in soil causes cryptococcal meningitis, or fungal meningitis. It primarily affects persons with compromised immune systems such as AIDS, lymphoma and diabetic patients. Symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, joint aches, confusion, stiff neck, intolerance to light and seizures, according to the University of Maryland Medical School. UMMC says it is treated with intravenous antifungal antibiotics such as amphotericin B and 5-flucytosine.
